Delta School seeks to lease CB Lamb

North Hanover School District Superintendent Dr. Richard Carson received a letter from Marilyn Bellis, one of the founders of the approved Delta Charter School, regarding the "feasibility of leasing part of C.B. Lamb School." A portion of this letter goes on to say that the Delta Charter School will pay rent and the rent monies could be used to "lessen the financial impact" that the school will have on Board of Education and township school district. Board Vice President Michael Grant stated, "I am confused. The rooms are being used. Cutting corners and possibly detracting from C.B. Lamb's educational program makes no sense."

Board member Schroeder commented, "Find out what their intentions are. My concern is the security." An opposing viewpoint came from Board member Vito D'Amato who said, "It will benefit everybody."

In other news the school's budget was discussed. Discussion on costs ensued- some are fixed, some are not. The Charter School was mentioned. Dr. Carson stated, "Whatever we do, we have to tack on the Charter School money." Projected costs for the Charter School will be added on to the North Hanover School District cost.

Dr. Carson felt strongly that Impact Aid funds should not be applied to the Charter School. In addition, the issue of the number of Charter School students was discussed briefly. The Board of Education has not received a final count of the number of students enrolled in the Delta Charter School.

In a telephone interview with Marilyn Bellis, one of the founders of the Delta Charter School, she said, "We are in midst of enrollment period." Bellis has kept the North Hanover Township BOE business office informed of "current counts."

Comments such as "if there were no State aid for parochial students" and "if DELTA does not meet its quota, they can take NH kids" were heard. The February 29, BOE meeting was cancelled. A meeting was held on February 22.

This session concentrated on budget issues. (The North Hanover Township Committee is interested in attending this meeting via letter. Vice President Grant commented, "Who are we representing. Certainly we don't want to give the impression of a fight between the township and the BOE."

Dr. Carson said, "We want to do what is best for the kids. We have an obligation to children and the educational process." Board member Vito D'Amato voted against the open session portion because he felt "It should be reported." D'Amato approved the executive session portion.

Approval was given to transfers and bills. Board member D'Amato opposed transfer and bills to D. Guzzi "until the water is fixed at C.B. Lamb School."

Board Vice President Grant questioned the number of transfers. Board Secretary Matt Ernandes explained "the air condition system has had numerous repairs." Ernandes hopes that the Honeywell work will "eliminate pumps where possible and that by going forward we will have only maintenance costs." Board member D'Amato felt that "changes in qualifications" should occur for School Lunch Aides. Specifically in discipline training and salaries. This resolution deals with a tuition student for the year 2000-2001, HIPP grant application, and a software. Jayne Tritt and Noelle Schappell of Columbia School will submit "Getting to Know You" HIPP grant application in the amount of $1,500.

Dr. Carson, said that "Mrs. Harris, Principal of Columbia School, has in this building a welcoming technique- a buddy system. This grant will enhance it."

The software is "The First Emperor of China/Voyager." This software is for the sixth grade students at Challenger School. The BOE acknowledged the receipt of the adjusted 1999-2000 state aid amounts.